Begins Sept 1 2017

Our Pre-Bronze, Bronze & Silver skaters will now work towards their STAR 1-5 tests (as of Sept 1 2017). These tests are applicable to those who are:

new to Figure Skating, or

is planning on competing at the STAR 1 to 5 level, or

was previously working towards their Preliminary or Jr. Bronze test

Each STAR level with have 3 to 5 tests to complete per level under three main categories – Skills, Freeskate & Dance. Each test can be done separately and in no particular order. Skaters will be advised of an upcoming test prior to the day and will must pay the corresponding fees in advance. Assessment fees are set by Skate Canada and are currently $12 per test.

New Test Levels

The following tests per level are available for our skaters to complete:

STAR 1 Tests (3):

Skills

Freeskate Elements

Dance Elements

STAR 2 Tests (5):

Skills

Freeskate Elements

Freeskate Program

A) Dutch Waltz Dance B) Canasta Tango Dance

STAR 3 Tests (5):

Skills

Freeskate Elements

Freeskate Program

A) Baby Blues Dance B) Dance Elements

STAR 4 Tests (5):

Skills

Freeskate Elements

Freeskate Program

A) Swing Dance B) Fiesta Tango

STAR 5 Tests (5):

Skills

Freeskate Elements

Freeskate Program

A) Willow Waltz Dance B) Dance Elements

When is testing done?

The biggest change in the testing system is that there will be continuous testing per level. Unlike Preliminary and Jr. Bronze where skaters could take several years to complete their tests, skaters will now have the ability to test all the way along their skating careers.

Also, instead of waiting for a specific scheduled test day and the availability of judges, skaters will now be tested by their own coaches to a national standard. The individual’s coach will be able to determine when the ideal time to test at each level is based on an individual’s progress.

Coaches will assess during a skaters’ regular session and lesson. The assessment essentially becomes part of their job description. Coaches will use existing lesson time to assess their skaters. The coach will charge for the time spent with the skater as they would for a regular lesson.

Further the new test requirements will now align STAR 1-5 competitions with the corresponding Freeskate test.

Each skater will receive a report after each test they complete outlining their results. Skaters must have received a rating of Silver or Gold rating in order to pass each individual test. If you skater receives a Bronze rating then they must redo the test at a later date. Your coach and Test Coordinator will inform Skate Canada of any tests passed and your skater’s national record will be updated accordingly.

Sample Asessment Report

What test level will your skater start in?

Skaters will be placed into the appropriate test level based on any previous tests taken.

Skaters who are new to STAR (or have not yet passed any tests under the old testing system) must begin with STAR 1. If a skater has previously passed a Preliminary or higher test they will granted an equivalency in that discipline into the appropriate STAR level. (Click here for more information on equivalency and progression)

With the Skate Canada equivalency some of our returning skaters may be competing at a higher level than they are testing. (For example a STAR 3 competitor who did not complete any previous tests will now start testing at STAR 1). The testing equivalency will not affect their competing level.

As well, the testing at the lower level, in most circumstances, should be quicker for a more experienced skater than a new skater at that level. And because your coach can do the testing they will not have to wait until a test to day to pass the test but can complete it when your coach feels they are ready.

For skaters who have their equivalency, they will not have to complete any lower tests in that category for Skate Canada purposes. But it will be at the discretion of their coach if they would like them to partake in a lower test (without a fee). Some of the new tests do have extra skills/elements that were not previously part of the Preliminary or Jr. Bronze testing and your skater’s coach may feel is beneficial for them to learn or be tested on. For example there was no Lutz Jump in the Preliminary Test but there is in STAR 3.

If you have any questions or concerns about the new testing process, please speak with your skater’s coach.